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How to Choose the Perfect Bath Rug

Choosing a rug for your bathroom may seem like a task that does not require too much thought, but the one you choose can actually play a pretty large role in shaping the entire look of your room, maintaining your and your family's safety and even improving your regular daily routine. Generally, when shopping for a bathroom rug, it's important to consider the color, size, material, durability, required maintenance and any additional safety features that the mat provides, so there's actually quite a few elements you should plan to account for. Take a look through these helpful ideas from Pottery Barn to make your bathroom safer, brighter and more inviting by incorporating a bath rug that harmonizes with the room's decor.

Start by measuring your entire bathroom and measuring the floor space where you want to place the rug, which is usually the center of the room or the space in front of the bathtub so the piece can prevent slippage on the tile floor. If you end up with a rug that is too small, there's a chance it might look out of place, and it could actually lead to safety issues if water spills onto the tile when you emerge from the shower or bathtub. If you end up with a mat that is too large, it may not lie flat around your bathroom fixtures, and it also might command all the attention in the room or detract from other decor. Your measurements will also help you determine if you want a rectangular, square, round or abstract-shape rug. Rugs measuring 17" by 24" are typically suitable in front of pedestal sinks or shower stalls, while those measuring 21" by 34" fit well outside most tubs.

Next, consider colors. When it comes to home decorating, many people don't always consider the bathroom as a place to show off their style, but it's just as important as any other room, particularly if it opens onto your master bedroom or it's a powder room that gives you the chance to match decor to the rest of the house. You can choose solid colors or exotic designs, but you want your mat to bring the room together and add to the overall design of the bathroom while also showing off your unique personality. Smaller rugs are better for patterns because they don't overwhelm the eye.

As an example, you may choose to turn your bathroom into a sleek, spa-like room with relaxing hues of blue and green meant to represent the colors of the ocean. A solid color or pattern with basic geometric shapes in these colors may be your best option. Or you may choose for your bathroom to match the soft, feminine decor of your bedroom. In this case, you might choose a floral rug in pastel colors. In addition to adding to the feel of your bathroom, your rug should incorporate the colors of your accessories, such as your shower curtain, window curtains, towels and any other colors used in the room. We offer a wide selection of bath rugs and mats to match any style or taste.

Choosing the material of your bath rug is one of the most important steps. Remember, it will most likely be exposed to water on a daily basis, so it needs to be durable, and you want it to last for a long time. Cotton rugs are extremely common, and while absorbent, they tend to dry quickly. They're also soft to the touch, which feels like a comfortable robe to sensitive feet. Egyptian cotton rugs are even more absorbent and softer to the touch. Alternatively, you may choose a rug woven from other fibers, like chenille. These rugs are not quite as soft as cotton, but they are water resistant, which means they don't incur as much water damage over time like cotton rugs might.

When choosing a material, also consider how easy it is to wash. Think about if it can sit in your hamper for a few days until you add it to the washing machine or if it requires more involved care. The easier it is to maintain, the better it is for your daily schedule.

Finally, consider the safety features of your bathroom rug. If young children will be stepping onto it, you want to make sure it doesn't slip easily, especially when it gets wet. Other features you may take into consideration are whether or not the rug is anti-bacterial or whether or not it contains memory foam for added support and comfort. You may also opt for rugs made from organic materials to impart an eco-friendly touch to your bathroom.